Progress Notes Issue 35: How do I find a collaborating physician?
NP Business Tip: Collaboration Tips: How do I find a collaborating physician? There are only 10 states that do not require a collaborating physician in order to practice*. Thus, most NPs require some level of collaboration and/or supervision in order to practice in their states. While this requirement is in place in most states, many NPs report that it is difficult to find a physician willing to fill this role. Other difficulties, such as reimbursement for the physicians services, liability insurance, etc, will be addressed in an upcoming article.
Before you even start looking for a collaborating physician, you need to do a bit of brainstorming. - First off, know exactly what is required in your state. What is it that you need? What rules, regulations and restrictions are in place in it comes NPs and collaborating physicians?
- What would be your ideal working relationship with the physician (keeping in my your state requirements).
- How often do you realistically feel you will need to utilize their services?
- What will you bring to the table? Are you fairly new, or do you have a great deal of experience? Do you have more time than money?
- What do you want the physician to bring to the table? Do you require someone with expertise in a certain area?
- What benefit will the physician receive from working with you - beyond financial payment?
- Have a CV/Resume ready. Be professional. Again, know exactly what is needed for your location.
Once you are clear about what you need, it's time to start looking for a physician to become your collaborator.
- Start with someone you know. Make a list of who you have worked it. Someone who knows will often be the easiest person to bring on board.
- Look to other NPs in your community. Who are their collaborators? Are they willing to work with another NP
- Consider approaching a newer group in town
- If you are near a teaching facility, consider discussing your needs with residents. They may be more open to working with an NP, and often, they can quite frankly, use the extra cash.
- Some NPs have advertised for a collaborator on Craig's list.
- With all the physicians taking part in social media, you may be able to connect with someone on LinkedIn, Twitter or Facebook
- Whenever anyone turns you down, ask them for a referral...who do they know who might be interested
Most of all, you want to put your proposal forth in terms of "what's in it for them". You will need to sell yourself as the competent, professional healthcare provider that you are.In future tips, we will discuss issues around payment for services, malpractice, and written agreements. *Alaska, Arizona, District of Columbia, Idaho, Iowa, Maine (after 2 yrs), Montana, New Hampshire, New Mexico, Oregon, Washington
|
Who Should Join
del.icio.us
Digg
Reddit
Facebook
StumbleUpon
GoogleBookmark
Technorati
Furl